The upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in February, is generating a lot of curiosity as teams are gearing up to compete for the coveted title. However, the venue of the tournament remains uncertain due to the ongoing tension over India's participation. India have confirmed that they will not travel to Pakistan for the tournament, which has led to extensive discussions among stakeholders. A possible solution appears to be a hybrid model, where India will play their matches at a neutral venue while the tournament will be held in Pakistan itself.
PCB makes new demand to ICC
"The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) wants written assurances from the world body (ICC) about the hybrid model for future international events to be hosted by India. A decision on the Champions Trophy is likely by Wednesday," a source close to the proceedings told IANS.
PCB needs formal assurances from ICC
The Pakistan Cricket Board has put forth one of its most prominent demands from the International Cricket Council in the wake of the above-mentioned discussions. Several reports have stated that the PCB wants the ICC to give them formal, written assurances that the hybrid model will be implemented for all ICC tournaments to be hosted by India till 2027.
Will Pakistan play in a hybrid model for future ICC events as well?
The deal reportedly includes the 2025 Champions Trophy apart from major events like the Women's World Cup in 2025 and the Men's T20 World Cup in 2026. The PCB's demand is based on seeking certainties under the continued uncertainty of the logistical and political landscape.
Decision on Champions Trophy schedule expected soon
According to reports, a decision regarding the Champions Trophy 2025 is likely to come by Wednesday. It is likely that all five group-stage matches involving India, including the much-anticipated India-Pakistan encounter, will be held in Dubai. And if India qualify, the semi-finals and final of the tournament are likely to be played in Dubai itself.
Preparations begin for Champions Trophy in Dubai
It is reported that the Emirates Cricket Board is making crucial preparations for these matches, keeping a close eye on the ongoing negotiations. They will wait for the final decision on the venue to ensure that all logistics preparations for the tournament are in place.
The situation regarding the Champions Trophy 2025 still remains uncertain, but the hybrid model appears to be the most likely outcome, providing a solution to travel restrictions and ensuring that the tournament can go ahead as planned.
